Best Island To Visit In Hawaii For First Time

Hawaii, with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, is a dream destination for many.

But with six major islands to choose from, deciding where to go for your first visit can be overwhelming. if you’re travelling to Hawaii for the first time.

This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the unique offerings of each island, focusing on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, to help you determine the perfect island for your first Hawaiian adventure.

Thanks for visiting our blog, are you planning to travel to Hawaii? Check out our United States eSIM. Get mobile data without physical SIM cards or paying for global roaming.

For first time visitors, here’s a basic table to simplify the main areas and why you may want to visit them:

Oahu: The Heart of Hawaii

Oahu, often called “The Gathering Place,” is the most visited island and a fantastic choice for first-time visitors.

It offers a diverse blend of urban excitement and natural wonders, all with a good balance of affordability and diverse experiences, making it an ideal introduction to the Aloha State.

Top Attractions and Activities

Pearl Harbor National Memorial:A poignant and historically significant site, Pearl Harbor allows you to delve into World War II history and pay respects at the USS Arizona Memorial.

Waikiki Beach:This iconic beach offers golden sands, turquoise waters, and a vibrant atmosphere with opportunities for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and outrigger canoeing.

Diamond Head State Monument:Hike to the summit of this extinct volcanic crater for panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean.

Polynesian Cultural Center:Immerse yourself in the cultures of Polynesia with authentic villages, traditional crafts, and captivating performances.

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden:Explore this serene garden with diverse flora and stunning views of the Ko’olau Mountains.

North Shore:Experience the legendary surf culture and laid-back vibes of Oahu’s North Shore, home to famous beaches like Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline.

Kualoa Ranch:Discover the beauty of this working cattle ranch with movie site tours, horseback riding, and ATV adventures.

Best Beaches

Lanikai Beach:Known for its calm, turquoise waters and soft white sand, Lanikai is a picture-perfect beach for swimming and sunbathing.

Kailua Beach Park:This expansive beach offers excellent conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and kayaking.

Waimanalo Beach Park:Escape the crowds at this long, sandy beach with a laid-back atmosphere.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: Snorkel in this protected bay teeming with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.

Electric Beach:Not your typical picturesque beach, but Electric Beach, located near an electric power plant, offers a unique underwater world with diverse marine life.

Accommodation Options

Oahu offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference, from budget-friendly hotels and hostels to luxurious resorts and vacation rentals.

Budget:

• Hostels:Waikiki and Honolulu offer several hostels for budget travelers.
• Budget-friendly hotels:Numerous hotels in Waikiki provide affordable options without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Mid-range:

• Boutique hotels:Find charming boutique hotels in Waikiki and the North Shore.
• Condominiums:Consider renting a condominium for more space and amenities.

Luxury:

• Iconic Waikiki hotels:Experience the history and luxury of iconic hotels like the Moana Surfrider, the Royal Hawaiian, and the Halekulani.
• Ko Olina Resorts:This resort area offers luxurious options like the Four Seasons Resort Oahu and the Aulani Disney Resort & Spa.

Transportation Options

Renting a car provides the greatest flexibility to explore the islands at your own pace, but it’s important to be aware of potential challenges. Shipping a car to the island can be expensive, and parking in Honolulu can be limited and costly.

• TheBus:Oahu’s public bus system is an affordable and efficient way to get around the island.
• Ridesharing:Uber and Lyft are readily available in Honolulu and Waikiki.
• Waikiki Trolley:This hop-on, hop-off trolley offers a convenient way to explore Waikiki’s main attractions.
• Biki Bikes:This bike-sharing service is a fun and eco-friendly option for short distances.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Oahu boasts a diverse culinary scene with everything from casual eateries and food trucks to fine dining restaurants.

• Waikiki: Explore a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs with live music and entertainment. Consider visiting Duke’s on Sunday or Rumfire for a lively bar scene.
• Honolulu: Discover a vibrant Chinatown with authentic Asian cuisine and local favorites.
• North Shore: Enjoy casual dining with ocean views and fresh seafood.

Surfing in Oahu

Oahu is a surfer’s paradise, with waves for all skill levels.

• Beginners: Head to Puaena Point or Chun’s Reef on the North Shore for manageable waves and a safe learning environment.
• Intermediate/Advanced: Explore the legendary breaks of the North Shore, such as Laniakea and Ehukai. Consider hiring a local surf guide if you’re not familiar with the area.
• Experts Only: The Banzai Pipeline is a world-famous and incredibly dangerous surf break for professional surfers only.

Overall Vibe and Atmosphere

Oahu offers a dynamic blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. Honolulu provides a bustling city experience, while Waikiki offers a vibrant beach town atmosphere. The North Shore has a more laid-back, surfer vibe, and the windward coast offers a tranquil escape with stunning natural beauty.

Maui: The Valley Isle

Maui, known as “The Valley Isle,” is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. It offers a more relaxed pace than Oahu, making it perfect for those seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation.

Maui’s diverse climate zones allow visitors to experience a variety of environments in a single day, from sunny beaches to lush rainforests and even the chilly subalpine climate of Haleakala volcano.

Top Attractions and Activities

Road to Hana:Embark on a scenic drive along this winding coastal road with breathtaking views, waterfalls, and lush rainforests.

Haleakala National Park:Witness a breathtaking sunrise from the summit of Haleakala volcano or explore the unique volcanic landscapes and hiking trails.

Molokini Crater:Snorkel or dive in this partially submerged volcanic crater teeming with marine life.

Iao Valley State Park: Hike through this lush valley with its iconic Iao Needle rock formation.

Lahaina Town:Explore this historic whaling town with its charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

Whale Watching Tours:During the winter months (December to May), embark on a whale watching tour to witness humpback whales breaching and playing in Maui’s waters.

Maui Ocean Center:Discover the underwater world of Hawaii at this aquarium with its diverse marine life exhibits and interactive displays.

Old Lahaina Luau:Immerse yourself in authentic Hawaiian culture with traditional food, music, and dance at this renowned luau.

Best Beaches

Makena Beach State Park (Big Beach):This expansive beach offers excellent conditions for swimming, bodyboarding, and sunbathing.

Ka’anapali Beach:This popular beach offers calm waters, soft sand, and a variety of water sports activities.

Napili Bay:This sheltered bay is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Wai’anapanapa State Park:Discover a black sand beach, lava caves, and coastal trails in this scenic park.

Baby Beach:This secluded beach offers a unique experience with its tide pool characteristics, perfect for families with young children.

Accommodation Options

Maui offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious resorts in Ka’anapali and Wailea to charming bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals in smaller towns.

Budget:

• Condominiums:Consider renting a condominium in Kihei or Kahana for a more affordable option.
• Budget-friendly hotels:Find budget-friendly hotels in Kahului or Wailuku.

Mid-range:

• Boutique hotels:Discover charming boutique hotels in Paia or Hana.
• Vacation rentals:Explore a variety of vacation rentals in Upcountry Maui.

Luxury:

• West Maui Resorts:Find luxurious resorts like the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa and the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua.
• South Maui Resorts:Discover upscale resorts and condominiums in Wailea and Kihei.

Transportation Options

Rental Car:Renting a car is recommended to explore Maui’s diverse regions.

Maui Bus:The public bus system offers affordable transportation, but routes are limited.

Ridesharing:Uber and Lyft are available in some areas.

Ka’anapali Trolley:This free trolley provides transportation within the Ka’anapali resort area.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Maui offers a diverse culinary scene with fresh seafood, local favorites, and international cuisine.

Lahaina:Explore a variety of restaurants, bars, and pubs with live music.

Kihei:Discover casual dining options and beachfront restaurants.

Wailea:Enjoy upscale dining experiences with ocean views.

Ambrosia Martini Lounge:This award-winning bar in Kihei offers live entertainment and a wide selection of martinis.

South Shore Tiki Lounge:This casual spot in Kihei offers live music, DJs, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Overall Vibe and Atmosphere

Maui has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere with a focus on outdoor activities and natural beauty. West Maui offers a vibrant resort experience, while South Maui has a more tranquil vibe. Upcountry Maui provides a charming escape with cooler temperatures and stunning views.

Kauai: The Garden Isle

Kauai, known as “The Garden Isle,” is the oldest of the major Hawaiian islands and is renowned for its dramatic natural beauty. With lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and the breathtaking Na Pali Coast, Kauai is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. Kauai’s stunning views and lookouts have been featured in many movies and TV shows, adding to its allure.

Top Attractions and Activities

Na Pali Coast:Explore this iconic coastline with its towering cliffs, hidden beaches, and cascading waterfalls by boat tour, helicopter tour, or hiking.

Waimea Canyon State Park: Hike through this “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” with its stunning views and diverse landscapes.

Wailua River:Kayak or take a boat tour along this scenic river to the Fern Grotto.

Poipu Beach Park:Relax on this beautiful beach with its calm waters and opportunities for snorkeling and swimming.

Hanalei Bay: Explore this picturesque bay with its crescent-shaped beach and charming town.

Hiking:Kauai offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels, from easy coastal walks to challenging treks in the mountains. The Kalalau Trail, a challenging 11-mile hike along the Na Pali Coast, offers breathtaking views and a true wilderness experience.

Best Beaches

Hanalei Beach Park:This expansive beach offers calm waters, soft sand, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Makua ‘Tunnels’ Beach:Snorkel in the clear waters of this beach with its unique lava tubes and abundant marine life.

Kee Beach:Relax on this picturesque beach at the end of the road on the North Shore.

Poipu Beach Park:This family-friendly beach offers calm waters, lifeguards, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

Anahola Beach:This large beach offers sweeping views of the nearby highlands and an impressive coastline, making it a favorite among locals.

Accommodation Options

Kauai offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts in Princeville and Poipu to cozy bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals in smaller towns.

Budget:

• Budget-friendly hotels:Find affordable options in Lihue or Kapaa.
• Hostels:Consider staying in a hostel for a budget-friendly option.

Mid-range:

• Condominiums:Rent a condominium for more space and amenities.
• Boutique hotels:Discover charming boutique hotels in Hanalei or Poipu.

Luxury:

• North Shore Resorts:Find luxurious resorts like the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay and the Hanalei Bay Resort.
• South Shore Resorts:Discover upscale resorts and condominiums in Poipu.
• Pet-friendly options:The Sheraton Kauai Resort and Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay are pet-friendly options for travelers with furry companions.

Transportation Options

Rental Car:Renting a car is highly recommended to explore Kauai’s diverse regions.

Kauai Bus:The public bus system offers limited service.

Ridesharing:Uber and Lyft are available in some areas.

Shuttles:Some hotels and tour companies offer shuttle services.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Kauai has a more laid-back dining and nightlife scene compared to Oahu and Maui.

Poipu:Explore a variety of restaurants with ocean views and fresh seafood. Consider Keoki’s Paradise for its Hawaiian cuisine and lively atmosphere.

Kapaa:Discover casual dining options and local favorites.

Hanalei:Enjoy a romantic dinner with views of Hanalei Bay.

Overall Vibe and Atmosphere

Kauai has a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere with a focus on natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

The North Shore offers a secluded escape with lush rainforests and dramatic cliffs, while the South Shore has a more sunny and dry climate.

Big Island: Island of Fire and Ice

The Big Island, officially known as Hawaii Island, is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian islands. It offers a diverse range of landscapes, from active volcanoes and black sand beaches to snow-capped mountains and lush rainforests.

The Big Island’s unique volcanic landscape supports a variety of plants and animals found nowhere else in the world.

Top Attractions and Activities

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Witness the power of nature at this active volcano park with lava flows, volcanic craters, and hiking trails.

Mauna Kea Observatories:Stargaze at this world-renowned astronomical observatory with its high-altitude location and clear skies.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach:Relax on this unique black sand beach where honu (green sea turtles) often bask in the sun.

Kealakekua Bay:Snorkel or kayak in this historic bay where Captain Cook first landed in Hawaii.

Waipio Valley:Hike or ride a mule down to this lush valley with its black sand beach and cascading waterfalls.

Manta Ray Night Dives:Experience the thrill of swimming with manta rays at night in Kona.

Snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay:Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life of Kealakekua Bay.

Best Beaches

Makalawena Beach:This secluded beach offers white sand, turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling.

Hapuna Beach State Park:This expansive beach is known for its white sand, clear waters, and excellent swimming conditions.

Manini’owali Beach at Kua Bay:This beautiful beach offers calm waters and excellent snorkeling.

Spencer Beach Park:This family-friendly beach offers calm waters, picnic areas, and camping facilities.

Kaimu Beach Park:This new black sand beach, formed by lava, offers a unique and dramatic landscape.

Accommodation Options

The Big Island offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious resorts in Kohala Coast to cozy bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals in smaller towns.

Budget:

• Hostels:Find budget-friendly hostels in Hilo.
• Budget-friendly hotels:Explore affordable hotels in Kailua-Kona.

Mid-range:

• Condominiums:Consider renting a condominium in Waikoloa.
• Bed and breakfasts:Discover charming bed and breakfasts in Volcano Village.

Luxury:

• Kohala Coast Resorts:Find luxurious resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai and the Fairmont Orchid.
• Volcano Village:Discover cozy bed and breakfasts and cottages near Volcanoes National Park.

Transportation Options

Rental Car:Renting a car is essential to explore the Big Island’s vast and diverse regions.

Hele-On Bus:The public bus system offers limited service.

Ridesharing:Uber and Lyft are available in some areas.

Restaurants and Nightlife

The Big Island offers a diverse culinary scene with fresh seafood, local favorites, and international cuisine.

Kailua-Kona:Explore a variety of restaurants, bars, and pubs with live music.

Hilo:Discover local eateries and farmers markets.

Waikoloa:Enjoy upscale dining experiences with ocean views.

Huggo’s on the Rocks:This popular restaurant in Kailua-Kona offers a beachside setting, live music, and a diverse menu.

Hilo Town Tavern:This lively tavern in Hilo offers open mic nights, live music, and a casual atmosphere.

Overall Vibe and Atmosphere

The Big Island has a diverse and adventurous atmosphere with a focus on natural wonders and outdoor activities.

The Kohala Coast offers a luxurious resort experience, while Hilo and Kona provide a more laid-back vibe. Volcano Village offers a unique escape with its proximity to the active volcano. 

The Big Island is also home to the Kona coffee belt, a narrow strip along the western slopes of Hualalai and Maunaloa volcanoes.

This region, with its fertile volcanic soil and unique climate, has a rich history of coffee cultivation dating back to the 19th century.

Choosing the Right Island for You

Each Hawaiian island offers a unique experience, and the best choice for your first visit depends on your interests and preferences.

For first-time visitors, Oahu stands out as the most suitable choice. Its blend of affordability, diverse experiences, and easy accessibility makes it the perfect introduction to the Aloha State.

You can experience the historical significance of Pearl Harbor, relax on the iconic Waikiki Beach, hike to scenic viewpoints, and immerse yourself in Polynesian culture, all while enjoying a vibrant city and a variety of dining and nightlife options.

However, if your interests lie elsewhere, the other islands offer compelling alternatives:

• Maui is perfect for honeymooners and those seeking a balance of relaxation and adventure, with its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and opportunities for whale watching and exploring the Road to Hana.
• Kauai is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with its dramatic natural beauty, hiking trails, and opportunities for kayaking and exploring the Na Pali Coast.
• The Big Island is perfect for adventurers and those seeking unique experiences, with its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and opportunities for stargazing and swimming with manta rays.

Ultimately, no matter which island you choose, your first trip to Hawaii is sure to be an unforgettable experience filled with aloha spirit and the magic of the islands.